Martin calls for prompt and effective response of UNSC to Nepal
Personal Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan in Nepal, Ian Martin, has said the UN Security Council (UNSC) should act promptly and authorise an expert team to Nepal and assist in the peace process and the preparations for next year’s constituent assembly elections.
Briefing the UNSC about last week’s peace agreement between the Nepal government and the
Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), Martin said, “It represents the most promising opportunity for the establishment of lasting peace and far-reaching reform.”
Referring to a letter from Secretary-General in which he recommended deploying an expert group of up to 60 to monitors for the management of arms and armed personnel, as well as for advice on the 2007 polls, Martin said, “The United Nations’ response should be prompt and effective.”
Annan in his letter to the UNSC on Wednesday also proposed to deploy a ‘technical assessment mission’ ahead of a full political mission to provide the assistance
that both sides have requested, including verifying and monitoring the cantonments of the rebel fighters and the confinement to the barracks of government soldiers.
Martin in his briefing to the Council also said it was important build confidence for the political process in Nepal that the UN extend, and be seen to extend, operational support as soon as possible, adding that recent developments in Nepal represent an opportunity to
be grasped.
Meanwhile, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour described the recent peace deal in Nepal as a crucial step towards setting the foundations for
democratic transition in which the protection and promotion of the human rights of all Nepalis must be central.
Speaking at the opening of the third session of the enhanced Human Rights Council, she said, “However, the parties must translate their commitments into meaningful actions to end on-going abuses.”
“As the country moves into this critical transition phase, consolidating the rule of law through professional policing and a strong criminal justice system will be key measures to be taken,” she added. nepalnews.com pb Nov 30 06
